The Words Will Come
October 05, 2022
Farewell Discourse depiction from the Maesta by Duccio, 1308–1311.
"Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit." - Mark 13:11
Few of the people I know have had to put this verse to the test.
Jesus knew that some of his listeners would face that. Mark included it in his gospel because, in his day, it was already happening.
A friend of mine who was raised in the Soviet Union in a pastor's home recounted to me how her father hugged his children each morning as he left home as if it were their last goodbye.
"We just never knew if it might be the last," she told me.
But, what if you are arrested, or even challenged, accosted, or cornered. What do you say?
Do you rehearse for the moment?
Jesus reminds his disciples, who will all be stopped in their tracks and challenged, not to worry.
Again, I repeat, do not worry.
Do not worry because God will give you the words in the moment for the moment.
Every day of your life is such a rehearsal. Every time you meet God in scripture, you are preparing. Every prayer is a readiness prayer.
One way or another, you will be challenged and sometimes in a manner that seems hostile.
But the Spirit of God will give you the right words in crisis.
Preachers and teachers, prepare you sermons and lessons. All disciples, prepare your lives. Be in a state of readiness for opportunity.
Live in joy and peace, not worry.
Believe in God.
Follow Jesus.
Trust the Holy Spirit.